Encinitas Youth to Perform in San Diego Junior Theatre Show

Justin Whitney of Encinitas has been cast to play 'Lost Boy' in the pilot stage production of Disney’s Peter Pan Jr., presented by San Diego Junior Theatre.

The celebrated tale of a boy who never grows up and whisks friends away on an unforgettable adventure will run April 27 through May 13 at Balboa Park’s Casa del Prado Theatre on Fridays at 7 p.m. and weekends at 2 p.m.  

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Disney on this presentation,” says San Diego Junior Theatre artistic director Desha Crownover.

Based on Disney’s 1953 animated feature film version of Sir James Matthew Barrie’s original play, the musical includes The Second Star to the Right, You Can Fly!, Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me), Never Smile at a Crocodile and other songs from the movie.  

Crownover, who is also directing this performance, says “the production showcases the devotion and talent of more than 110 of our students onstage and behind the curtain. The non-cast members prepare costumes, apply make-up, run the stage lights and handle all of the many other fundamental theater responsibilities.”  

Founded in 1948, San Diego Junior Theatre is the oldest youth theater in the United States. Positively affecting students of all abilities, ages 4 through 18, it thrives through show ticket sales, class and camp enrollments and the generosity of its alumni and community members. Contributions to San Diego Junior Theatre are tax-deductible.

Ticket range from $8 to $14 and are available online at juniortheatre.com or by calling (619) 239-8355.